Colin Peterson was the first non-Gibb brother to join the Bee Gees (Picture: Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
Bee Gees original band member Colin Peterson has died aged 78.
Peterson was hired as the group’s first drummer in the 60s after they were formed by brothers Barry, Maurice and Robin Gibb.
He played on the albums Bee Gees 1st, Horizontal, Idea, Odessa and Cucumber Castle before his departure in 1969.
The musician’s death was announced by Bee Gees tribute act The Best of the Bee Gees. Peterson had previously joined them on tour.
In a tribute, The Best of the Bee Gees said: ‘t is with the heaviest of hearts that the Best of the Bee Gees Show announces the passing of our legend, Colin “Smiley” Petersen on Monday 18 November, 2024.
‘Colin was a much loved “family” member of the troupe, holding our audiences spellbound with his stories of the lead role in the iconic Australian film “Smiley”, as the drummer in the original Bee Gees, and performing with the Best of the Bee Gees regularly for the last five years.’
His manager Greg Shaw added: ‘I’ve known Colin for thirty-four years and was thrilled when he agreed to bring his career full circle by joining the Best of the Bee Gees.
‘His endearing nature and unabashed storytelling added unique perspectives to the shows and he was loved on and off stage. It was an honour to have called him my friend.’
Metro has contacted the Bee Gees’ rep for comment.
Source:: Metro